Improving online security

Outlined below are some important guidelines to enhance your security when using the internet for banking or shopping.

• When you use Netlink online banking you can rest assured that you are logging on to a secure environment to perform your banking transactions, however it is important to only log-on to Netlink from the Nurses First website.  It is a good idea to add Nurses First's web address www.nurses1st.com.au to your list of favourites to make sure you are logging on to our secure site.  
• Never leave your computer unattended while you are logged on to a Netlink online banking session.
• Always properly log-out of a Netlink online banking session using the log out prompt.
• Never give anyone your Netlink log-on details - especially in response to an unsolicited telephone call or email, even if the person claims to be from Nurses First. Nurses First will never ask for your Netlink password.
• Turn off your computer's password memory function.
• Always check the online banking or shopping website you are using is secure and provides online encryption. You can tell by looking for the small padlock icon that should appear at the bottom right of your screen when you enter a secure site, or the website address will start with https://.
• Regularly change your log-on passwords and make sure that you don't choose anything that is too obvious or easy to guess. Your passwords should include a combination of upper and lower case letters and numbers to enhance its security. Never write your password down or give it to anyone.
• Ensure that you have up to date anti virus software installed on your home computer. Some websites such as Microsoft offer free upgrades that you can download. It is important to install these upgrades as soon as they become available to make sure you are protected from any new viruses.
• Don't open any email attachments from unknown sources as they could contain a virus, worm or trojan. Besides being a nuisance, some viruses, worms and trojans have the ability to capture information from your computer, such as your bank account details and passwords and send this information to a third party.
• Do not access Netlink online banking or shop online if you are concerned that your computer might have virus, as it could affect your level of security.
• Install a good firewall on your home computer to prevent unauthorised internet users accessing your PC. Packages such as Norton Internet Security are available to download from the internet and some are provided free of charge.
• Where possible avoid banking or shopping online in internet cafes or other public internet terminals. If you have to use an internet cafe, make sure that nobody can see you enter your personal details.
• When shopping online only provide your credit card or account details once you are certain you want to make the purchase and are aware of the terms and conditions of sale.